Minding your ABVs at the beer festival

It’s easy to get lost in an alcohol fog at a beer festival. The average alcohol content in beers like Budweiser, Miller and Coors is around 4%. In craft beer, a lot of beers average around 5-7% alcohol by volume (ABV). And then you’ve got your “imperial” or “double” strength beers, weighing in at 8% and higher.

The affect that alcohol has on you is dependent on many things, such as food intake, how much water is in the body, medication, age, mental and physical health, percentage of body fat, and your drinking experience. Get an idea of how you can Savor the Savor the Flavor Responsibly® by estimating the potential blood alcohol content range that you may experience when enjoying the flavor and diversity of beer.

How to mind your ABVs1. Stay hydrated.Drink water! Go from beer to water, beer to water. This not only keeps you hydrated, but also washes your tongue so you can better taste the next beer. Staying well hydrated will also help stave off a major hangover. It’s not unusual for me to drink 3 or 4 pints of water at a beer festival.

2. Keep fed.There’s plenty of food options at the festival, and be sure to have something to eat before you start drinking. Food slows down the absorption of alcohol by your system, allowing you to get more mileage on your day.

3. Don’t rush.You’re not in a drinking contest with your buddies. Take time to enjoy each beer, meet new friends, dance at the music stages, and watch the chainsaw pumpkin carving. Sip, sip!

4. Have a ride.Bring along a designated driver; they can chill out in The Village while you’re sipping away, or can drop you off and pick you up later. There’s also several cab companies and great bus service in Seattle.